Hernia??

I was wondering...How would you know if you have a hernia? Is there pain? protrusion? What are some symptoms? Are there always symptoms? Thanks in advance for any information. JudyB

Hi Judy, I think it varies from person to person. I have an umbilical hernia and wouldn't even know it except I had xrays taken when I had a kidney stone that stated I had one. Will be good for getting help with the insurance for plastics though. Mostly I have seen protrusions of varying sizes and often pain too. A couple of friends of mine have had both pain and protrusion and had to have them dealt with.... Jackie

Judy, I have a hernia that showed up about 4-6 weeks after surgery. It was not related to my surgery. When I had lost about 35 lbs some of the fat that was supporting the hernia formed a liquified pocket around the hernia and it became incomfortable. My surgeon aspirated it and I felt as good as new, almost immediately. The good news is, I will have it repaired at the same time as I have some plastics done and it will help to offset the hospital cost a bit. Oh, I think I got the hernia about 8 years ago when I had to lift 43 lbs repeatedly for a job. I had a c-scan that identified it in December. I could feel the hernia, a protrusion in my lower abdomin, after I lost a good amount. Now 5 months from my surgery date, I am no longer uncomfortable but I do take it a little easier with the heayy lifting. Please talk to you Dr. and consider having it looked at! I am so glad I did!!! McLean